Council votes unanimously in extraordinary meeting to award construction contract

In Short:

• Balranald Shire Council unanimously approved a $4,595,803.08 construction contract with RTM Constructions for the Bidgee Haven Extension Project at an extraordinary council meeting on 29 January 2026

• The expansion includes a new 6-bed memory support ward for specialised dementia care, a modern purpose-built kitchen, expanded communal living areas, upgraded laundry facilities and enhanced outdoor spaces

• Mayor Louie Zaffina said "this is an outstanding outcome for our community" that ensures council can "continue to provide high-quality, compassionate care close to home" as part of a long-term vision to allow residents to age in place

Balranald Shire Council has unanimously approved the construction contract for the Bidgee Haven Extension Project, awarding RTM Constructions $4,595,803.08 (excluding GST) to deliver the major aged care expansion.

The decision was made at an extraordinary council meeting on 29 January 2026, with every councillor voting in support of the project that will transform and future-proof the shire's aged care facility.

The expansion will deliver a new six-bed memory support ward strengthening specialised dementia care locally, a modern purpose-built kitchen, expanded and improved communal living areas, upgraded laundry facilities, and enhanced outdoor spaces to support wellbeing, accessibility and quality of life.

Balranald Mayor Louie Zaffina said the unanimous decision reflected council's strong commitment to residents and the future of aged care in the shire.

"This is an outstanding outcome for our community and a proud moment for Council," Mayor Zaffina said.

"Bidgee Haven is a critical service for our Shire, and this extension ensures we can continue to provide high-quality, compassionate care close to home. Every Councillor was delighted to support this project."

The addition of a dedicated memory support ward addresses a critical need in the region, providing specialised care for residents living with dementia and other cognitive conditions. Currently, families often face the difficult choice of either providing care at home without adequate support, or sending loved ones to facilities in larger centres hours away from family and community.

The expansion responds to growing community need and reflects council's long-term vision to invest in essential services that allow residents to age in place, surrounded by family, friends and familiar supports.

For families in Balranald and surrounding areas, having access to quality aged care locally is invaluable. The alternative, relocating elderly family members to facilities in Deniliquin, Griffith, or further afield, creates emotional, practical and financial strain. Regular visits become difficult or impossible. Loved ones are separated from lifelong friends, familiar surroundings, and the community they've been part of for decades.

The expansion also includes practical infrastructure improvements that will benefit all residents and staff. A modern, purpose-built kitchen will improve meal preparation and food safety standards, while expanded communal living areas will provide more space for residents to gather, socialise and maintain their independence and quality of life.

Enhanced outdoor spaces recognise the importance of access to fresh air, natural light and connection to the environment, particularly for older Australians who have spent their lives working on the land. The focus on wellbeing and accessibility ensures the facility meets contemporary aged care standards.

Council acknowledged the extensive planning and preparation undertaken to reach this milestone and thanked staff, project partners and the community for their ongoing support.

Construction is expected to commence shortly, with the council looking forward to sharing progress updates as the project takes shape. The construction phase will provide employment opportunities and economic activity in the local area, with flow-on benefits for accommodation, suppliers and service providers.

The expansion comes as Australia faces a growing aged care crisis, with increasing demand for places and services, workforce shortages, and ongoing concerns about quality and safety standards.

Regional and remote areas face particular challenges in attracting and retaining aged care workers and maintaining viable facilities.

By investing in modern facilities and specialised services like the memory support ward, Balranald Shire Council is positioning Bidgee Haven to meet future demand and maintain high standards of care.

The project acknowledges the changing nature of aged care needs. As Australians live longer, the complexity of care required increases. Dementia and cognitive decline affect a growing proportion of aged care residents, making dedicated memory support facilities increasingly essential rather than optional.

For Balranald residents, the message is clear: council is committed to ensuring you can age in your community, close to family and the life you've built, with access to the specialist care you need.